About Form SS-4, Application for Employer Identification Number (EIN) | Internal Revenue Service
Summary: Form SS-4 is the official IRS document used by businesses, corporations, partnerships, estates, trusts, and other entities to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for tax filing and reporting purposes.
Form SS-4 (Rev. December 2025) is the standard application form provided by the Internal Revenue Service for entities to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN). The form collects essential information including the legal name of the entity, trade name, mailing and street addresses, type of entity, reason for applying, and details regarding employment tax liability. The document also includes a 'Do I Need an EIN?' guide to assist applicants in determining their filing requirements based on their specific business structure or situation, such as hiring employees, opening a bank account, or changing organizational type.
Document outline
1. Form SS-4 (Rev. December 2025) Header and OMB Information 2. Entity Identification (Lines 1-3) 3. Address Information (Lines 4a-5b) 4. Business Location and Responsible Party (Lines 6-7b) 5. LLC and Entity Type Details (Lines 8a-9b) 6. Reason for Applying (Line 10) 7. Accounting and Employment Details (Lines 11-16) 8. Principal Business Activity (Line 17) 9. Previous EIN and Third Party Designee (Line 18) 10. Applicant Signature and Certification 11. Do I Need an EIN? (Reference Guide for various entity types)